Earn a FEPAC accredited degree!
Madonna University’s Bachelor of Science (BS) in Forensic Science degree provides students with a strong experiential foundation across the sciences
and a refined knowledge of its application within the criminal justice system. Students
within this program also obtain a minor in chemistry, biology, or both, further cementing
their expertise in the field.
One of only 35 institutions in the world to achieve accreditation through the prestigious
Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC), Madonna has
a longstanding record for excellence in the Forensic Science major, preparing students
for careers serving justice and their community through the application of science
in law enforcement.
As the only FEPAC accredited undergraduate program in Michigan, the program meets
the standards that are being demanded by employers under the Department of Justice’s
newly introduced endeavor to improve forensic science nationwide through a partnership
between the National Commission on Forensic Science and the National Institute of
Standards and Technology (NIST).
Experiential Forensic Science Curriculum
Because the field of forensic science contains a myriad of different sub-disciplines
and specialties, coursework is focused on exploring techniques at the experiential
level so that students can decide which avenue they wish to pursue when making the
next step in their journey to success. Accordingly, the curriculum for the Forensic
Science major covers a wide range of engaging topics, including biology, chemistry,
genetics, criminal law, ethics and expert testimony, physics, evidence analysis, forensic
anthropology, and toxicology.
Forensic science coursework is led by expert faculty who are scholars and practitioners
in the field. They are dedicated to assisting students in mastering techniques and
building confidence so that they are prepared not just theoretically but also with
“good lab hands” that are essential for the performance of standard operating protocols
within a highly regulated environment.
Explore the full BS in Forensic Science curriculum.
Student Research Opportunities
The Bachelor’s in Forensic Science degree fosters professional relationships that
provide opportunities for faculty and students to present and publish the research
data generated within the Madonna University Forensic Science Research Facility.
Students have also been able to participate with faculty members on long term research
funded through the National Institute of Justice (NIJ). Funding is available for students
to help cover the costs of publication and travel to professional functions to present
research.
By engaging in independent projects for research and development within the Madonna
University Forensic Science Research Facility, students at the undergraduate level
gain a level of skill development that is most often reserved for those in graduate
level programs.
Learn more about Student Research Opportunities.
Career and Graduate Opportunities in Forensic Science
The BS in Forensic Science has a strong emphasis on applied learning, providing preparation
for immediate employment or entrance into graduate and professional schools upon graduation.
Students also gain invaluable communication, problem solving, and critical thinking
skills that position them for future success.
The Forensic Science bachelor’s degree program has earned a reputation for excellence
and our graduates are in high demand. Explore the roles, future employers, and graduate
schools attended by Madonna’s BS in Forensic Science students.
Career Roles
- Forensic Scientist
- Forensic Biologist
- Forensic Chemist/Toxicologist
- Forensic Anthropologist
- Latent Print Specialist
- Ballistics Specialist
- Crime Scene Technician
- Evidence Technician
- Forensic Technologist
- Research & Development
- Forensic Pathologist
- Odontologist
- Entomologist
- Laboratory Manager
Employers
- Michigan State Police
- Oakland County Sheriff's Office
- Detroit Police Department
- American Systems
- Houston Crime Laboratory
- Bode Cellmark Forensics
- Florida Department of Law Enforcement
- Arbor Bioscience
- Condat Corporation
- MC3 Cardiopulmonary
- DPD, Wisconsin (Madison)
- WCOME
Graduate Schools Attended
- Indiana University-Purdue University
- Michigan State University
- Wayne State University
- Syracuse University
- University of Michigan
- University of Toledo
- University of Montana
Admission Requirements
The Forensic Science major has a two-stage admissions process. Students must first
be accepted into the Pre-Forensic Program and should first review all stage one admission requirements.
Once students are accepted as a pre-forensics student, they must meet Madonna’s stage two forensics admission requirements.
Whether transferring to Madonna or coming directly from high school, the Madonna Undergraduate
Admissions team is happy to walk applicants through the necessary steps to becoming
a Madonna University student.
Any questions or requests for assistance can be directed to the Office of Undergraduate
Admissions at 734-432-5339 or admissions@9858k.com.
Make a Difference in Your Community with a Forensic Science Degree
Madonna University’s Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science degree emphasizes the
applied integration of science and criminal justice, shaping highly skilled professionals
who are ready to make a difference for the safety and justice of their communities.
Get started on a Forensic Science career by requesting more information or starting your application!
STUDENT SUCCESS
Jessica graduated with her B.S. in Forensic Science from Madonna University in 2019.
While attending Madonna, she dedicated time conducting and presenting forensic science
DNA research projects; including the analysis of ancient canid remains from New Mexico.
Jessica was recognized for her research contributions receiving the Research Excellence
Award at the 2019 Madonna Research Symposium. Additionally, Jessica was selected for
the Madonna University Research Team. Outside of research, she was a member of the
student organization Blossom, Sigma Zeta National Science and Mathematics Honor Society,
and volunteered for the annual Missing Persons Day hosted by Missing in Michigan.
After graduation, she began work as a Specimen Accessioner at a diagnostic laboratory,
then promoted to a Covid-19 Technician. You can now find her back in the world of
forensic science! In August 2021, Jessica accepted a position as a Forensic Technician
in the Biology unit with Michigan State Police .
Valerie Mayra graduated with a FEPAC accredited B.S. in Forensic Science from Madonna University in 2017. During her degree,
Valerie was selected to be part of the Madonna University Cold Case Investigation
Research Team, was a member of the Sigma Zeta National Science and Mathematics Honor
Society, and was the recipient of the 2016 Madonna University Science and Mathematics
Academic Award. Valerie has been employed by the Oakland County Sheriff's Office as
a forensic laboratory investigator since September 2017. She is an analyst in the
latent print unit as well as an investigator on the crime scene team. She graduated
from the Ron Smith and Associates National Latent Print Examiner Training Academy
in March 2018 where she received 20 weeks of intense and comprehensive training, covering
everything from the history of fingerprints to friction ridge expert witness testimony
techniques. Valerie has been a member of the International Association for Identification
since 2017.
Al has been with Condat Corp. for 6 years and manages product life cycle, flow of
information between group laboratories and performs quality control, tech service,
and developmental activities. Al admittedly never expect to work in lubricants; however,
he finds it fascinating to know just how large of a role it plays in the world around
us. He is also involved in supporting manufacturing with process control, scale up
and improvements. Some tasks that have been assigned to him specifically revolve around
the removal of some hazardous raw materials from some of the products and maintaining
equipment calibration for the lab.
FORENSIC SCIENCE PROGRAM RESOURCES
Mission – Forensic Science Program
The mission of the Forensic Science Department and Forensic Science program coincides
with the entire Madonna University mission regarding career preparation, and service
to others and society, based on Judeo-Christian principles as advanced by the Felician
Sisters. The Forensic Science program incorporates this mission while also making
a strong commitment to liberal arts education. While focusing on forensic science in particular, the sciences are taught with a global
perspective, incorporating the role of Forensic Science applications in social, environmental,
ethical, and human issues.
Goals and Objectives – Forensic Science Program
At the conclusion of the program, students will be able to:
- effectively analyze and express Forensic Science concepts in oral and written forms.
- engage in critical thinking to research and solve problems in forensic science.
- competently conduct evidence analysis and research in forensic science laboratories.
- apply ethical principles in conducting forensic analysis.
- gain entry-level employment or pursue graduate studies in the field.
- meet nationally recognized standards for certification in forensic science.
- All Madonna University Forensic Science students are required to provide vaccination
records for Hepatitis A and B (or a recent titer demonstrating immunity).
This requirement must be completed before students are accepted from Pre-Forensics
into the Forensic Sciences program.
- All Madonna University Forensic Science students are required to be eligible for a
background investigation.
Each agency has its own process and qualification requirements. However, those seeking
employment in a law enforcement agency laboratory should expect that a thorough review
of their criminal, credit, academic and professional histories will be conducted.
Polygraph examinations may be required, depending on state law and departmental policy.
Potential disqualifiers (e.g., drug use, criminal history, credit problems) vary between
agencies.
- All Madonna University Forensic Science students are required to participate in national
standardized testing prior to graduation.
The MU Forensic Science Program currently uses the Forensic Science Aptitude Test
(FSAT) developed by the American Board of Criminalistics (ABC).
Forensic Science Program facilities are housed in the beautiful Gold Certified LEED
(Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Franciscan Center for Science and
Media at Madonna University. This new, 60,000 square foot facility opened in fall
2009 and provides state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories where students and
faculty design and carry out innovative research projects.
Instrumentation and Equipment List
MU Safety in Science Laboratories Student Manual
Laboratory internships allow students to acquire new skills, as well as network with
and assess potential employers in an interactive professional setting. While many
forensic laboratories offer internships, the number of placements is often limited
and highly competitive. Students interested in internship opportunities are strongly
encouraged to contact their faculty advisor and initiate the application process at
the beginning of their third year.
Past Internships:
- Michigan State Police
- Oakland County Sheriff Crime Lab
- Alabama Department of Forensic Science
- Sparrow Hospital Forensic Pathology/Medical Examiner's Office
- Fraser Public Safety
- Lansing Police Department
- Condant
- Wacker Chemical Corp.
Students at Madonna have numerous opportunities to give back to their community. However,
students in the Forensic Science program get the opportunity to put their forensics
skills and their Felician Values into action through Forensic Science Community Outreach.
Our outreach programs focus on initiatives which help to restore justice to the less
fortunate and often forgotten members of society.
Learn More About Forensic Science Community Outreach at Madonna
The purpose of the Madonna University Forensic Science Society is to encourage interaction
and networking between Madonna University students, alumni, and forensic science organizations
within the local area. The MUFSS also hosts fun get-together meetings, learning activities
and opportunities for members to put their skills and Felician Values into service
for the community. Students are eligible (and encouraged) to join once they are accepted
and enrolled at Madonna.
Learn More About the MU Forensic Science Society
The Forensic Science Program fosters professional relationships that provide opportunities
for faculty and students to present and publish the research data generated within
the Madonna University Forensic Science Research Facility. Students have also been
able to participate with faculty members on long term research funded through the
National Institute of Justice (NIJ). Funding is available for students to help cover
the costs of publication and travel to professional functions to present research.
Senior Thesis Research:
Topics covered in our senior seminar course cover the broad field of forensic science.
Below are some of our past projects:
-
The Recovery of DNA Evidence from Zar-ProTM Fluorescent Blood Lifters
-
Death of a Samurai?: Exploring the Past using Forensic Science Techniques
-
Ancestry Determination of Human Skeletal Remains from Unknown Sources Used as Teaching
Specimens
-
Who Am I?: Using Forensic DNA Analysis to Shed Light on the Ancestry of Found Human
Remains
-
Wildlife Trafficking and Public Perception
-
Challenges Associated with Ancient DNA Analysis and Authentication of Endogenous DNA
in Various Sources from 2nd Century Roman Samples
-
Assessing Methods to Enhance and Preserve Proteinaceous Impressions Using Inter- and
Intra-Examiner Reliability
-
Semen Detection and Enhancement on the Skin of Decedents During the Early Stages of
Decomposition
-
In-Depth Analysis Evaluating the Penetrative Efficacy of .30-30 Winchester Ammunition
Against Level 3 Armor
-
Analysis of Ear Morphology and Biometrics and Success Rate as a Form of Identification
-
Determining the Species of Bone Fragments Recovered from Roman Ruins in Arels, France
Using Cytochrome-B Oxidase
-
Comparison of Traditional and 3D Printed Firing Pin Impressions in Clay
-
Inter- and Intra-Examiner Reliability: Assessing Methods to Enhance and Preserve Blood
Impressions from the Skin of Decedents during the Early Stages of Decomposition
-
The reliability of two breathalyzer devices against EnzyChrom™ Ethanol Assay (ECET-100): A comparative study
Learn More About Student Research Opportunities
Forensic Science Assessment Test (FSAT)
The FSAT is a general knowledge exam given to college students which has been found to perform like similar exams such as the GRE, MCAT and ACS.
Madonna University FSAT Ranking - Spring Sitting*
Test Year |
# of UG Programs |
Total # of Students |
Students from MU |
Ranking |
2015 |
13 |
103 |
9 |
2 |
2016 |
11 |
111 |
9 |
7 |
2017 |
13 |
108 |
8 |
3 |
2018 |
12 |
145 |
11 |
4 |
2019 |
12 |
117 |
10 |
2 |
2020 |
4 |
19 |
10 |
2 |
2021 |
11 |
104 |
12 |
4 |
2022 |
11 |
125 |
11 |
4 |
2023 |
12 |
137 |
14 |
7 |
2024 |
10 |
113 |
11 |
7 |
*there are two separate sittings, spring and fall; with 25 accredited undergrad programs
Forensic Science Program Enrollment and Graduation
Academic Year
|
Program Enrollment
|
Forensic Science Students
|
Students Graduated
|
2021/2022 |
82 |
26 |
11 |
2022/2023 |
92 |
40 |
15 |
2023/2024 |
93 |
34 |
11 |
2024/2025 |
107 |
28 |
Coming In Spring |
Forensic Science Program Retention Rates
Forensic Science majors returning from one fall semester to the next as compared to
students as a whole at Madonna University.
|
Major |
Retention Rate |
F2020 to F2021 |
Forensic Science |
100.00% |
University-Wide |
82.51% |
|
|
|
F2021 to F2022 |
Forensic Science |
96.15% |
University-Wide |
76.00% |
|
|
|
F2022 to F2023 |
Forensic Science |
100.00% |
University-Wide |
72.00% |
|
|
|
F2023 to F2024 |
Forensic Science |
100% |
University-Wide |
72% |
Undergraduate Exit Survey Results
These results are from our 2024 cohort, n = 2 response.
Please rank these statements using a scale of 1-5, where 5 is strongly agree and 1
is completely disagree.
The Forensic Science Program prepared me to enter the work force in the Field of Forensics.
Option |
% Response |
1 |
- |
2 |
- |
3 |
- |
4 |
50% |
5 |
50% |
The Forensic Science Program prepared me to enter the workforce in a non-Forensic
STEM field.
Option |
% Response |
1 |
- |
2 |
- |
3 |
100% |
4 |
- |
5 |
- |
I would recommend the undergraduate Forensic Science Program to someone interested
in pursuing a career in forensic science.
Option |
% Response |
1 |
- |
2 |
- |
3 |
50% |
4 |
- |
5 |
50% |
The biology component of the program expanded my knowledge of Forensic Biology.
Option |
% Response |
1 |
- |
2 |
50% |
3 |
50% |
4 |
- |
5 |
- |
The chemistry component of the program expanded my knowledge of Forensic Chemistry.
Option |
% Response |
1 |
- |
2 |
50% |
3 |
50% |
4 |
- |
5 |
- |
The criminalistics component of the program expanded my knowledge of pattern matching
and forensic analysis.
Option |
% Response |
1 |
- |
2 |
- |
3 |
50% |
4 |
- |
5 |
50% |
Please indicate your future plans.
Option |
% Response |
MS |
100% |
PhD |
50% |
Employment |
100% |
What field of study would you pursue?
Option |
% Response |
Forensic Science |
100% |
Anthropology |
50% |
Biology |
50% |
Chemistry |
50% |
Other (Food Science)
|
50% |
I did an internship as a student.
Option |
% Response |
Yes |
50% |
No |
50% |
Where did you do your internship?
-
Drug Chemistry and Firearms/Toolmarks
I have a job lined up after graduation.
Option |
% Response |
Yes |
50% |
No |
50% |
What is your title/position?
- Special Agent 1/Forensic Scientist 1 - Firearms & Toolmark
Alumni Employment
Our program alumni are employed in various field and some even pursue a graduate education!
Data collected from Alumni Surveys and from LinkedIn (July 2024).
Alumni Survey Responses - July 2024
Alumni Response n = 22
Total Alumni Contacted n - 114
Did the MU Forensic Science Program prepare you for your first job?
Option |
% Response |
Yes |
85.7% |
No |
14.3% |
No Answer |
4.8% |
Did the MU Forensic Science Program prepare you for your current job?
Option |
% Response |
Yes |
76.2% |
No |
19.1% |
No Answer |
9.5% |
On a scale of 1-5 (1 being the lowest score and 5 being the highest score:
Do you feel that the MU Forensic Science Program prepare you to enter the workforce
upon graduation?
Option |
% Response |
1 |
0% |
2 |
9.5% |
3 |
14.3% |
4 |
19.0% |
5 |
23.8% |
How likely is it that you would recommend the program to someone interested in pursuing
forensic science?
Option |
% Response |
1 |
0% |
2 |
4.8% |
3 |
9.5% |
4 |
38.1% |
5 |
47.6% |
No Answer |
4.8% |
If given the choice, would you choose the program again for your bachelor's degree?
Option |
% Response |
1 |
4.8% |
2 |
9.5% |
3 |
0.00% |
4 |
33.3% |
5 |
52.4% |
No Answer |
4.8% |
History of Forensic Science Program Accreditation
Following the 2004 release of the National Institute of Justice’s report on the state of forensic science educational institutions in the United States, the
American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) sponsored the development of the Forensic
Science Education Programs Education Commission (FEPAC), to implement the recommendations
of the NIJ’s Technical Working Group on Forensic Science Education (TWG-ED). Madonna
University is one of only 35 institutions in the world to achieve accreditation through
the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) and has the
only FEPAC Accredited undergraduate program in Michigan.
FEPAC website
If you would like to donate to the Forensic Science Department for research, please
contact Dr. Stephanie Gladyck, Director of the Forensic Science Program at 734-432-5521
or slgladyck@9858k.com.
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Following an Incident of Physical or Sexual Assault, Campus Safety and Security (Annual
Security and Fire Safety Report)
- If a student’s complaint is not resolved by university recourse, they have the right to contact FEPAC with
a complaint and be notified of the process to do so.
Administration
Department of Forensic Science
Dr. Stephanie Gladyck, Assistant Professor
slgladyck@9858k.com
(734) 432-5521
Dean of Students
Dr. Christine Benson, Dean
cbenson@9858k.com
(734) 432-5867
College of Arts and Sciences
Dr. Ian Bell, Dean
ibell@9858k.com
(734) 432-5307
Susan Toma, Associate Dean
stoma@9858k.com
(734) 432-5525
Student Grievance Process
This grievance work-flow provides a method for settling student grievances resulting
from a misinterpretation of the MU Catalog and/or departmental policies, including
grades, academic recess, or dismissal from the university. Please see the Student
Handbook for more details.
- Attempt to rectify the problem by talking to your instructor.
- If the problem has not been resolved within 10 days, talk to the department chair.
- If the problem has not been resolved within 10 days, talk to the Academic Dean of the Appropriate College.
- If the problem has not been resolved within 10 days, appeal to the Student Appeal Board. You must obtain and submit the Special Academic and Administrative Requests form to the Office of the Registrar.
- A hearing date is set with the Student Appeal Board by the Dean of Students.
- At the hearing, both the student and faculty member present their views on the issue.
- The Student Appeal Board will arrive at a majority decision.
- The Dean of Students will provide written notice of the decision to both parties.
- If you would like to appeal the decision, you may do so to the Vice President for Academic Administration, Graduate School Dean, or designee. This decision will be final.
This grievance work-flow provides a method for settling student grievances resulting
from a misinterpretation of MU policies. Please see the Student Handbook for more
details.
- Attempt to rectify the problem by talking to the staff member with whom the issue
exists.
- If the problem has not been settles within 10 days, speak to the department or office head.
- If the problem has not be settled within 10 days, speak to the Dean of Students.
- Submit the Special Academic and Administrative Requests form to the Office of the Registrar.
- A hearing date will be set with the Dean of Students.
- At the hearing, you may present evidence of grievance.
- The Dean of Students will provide a written notification of the decision.
- You may appeal to the Vice President for Student Affairs and Mission Integration. This decision will be final.
If a student’s complaint is not resolved by university recourse, they have the right to contact FEPAC with
a complaint and be notified of the process to do so.
http://www.aafs.org/fepac/contact-fepac
OTHER PROGRAMS IN FORENSIC SCIENCE
Masters in Forensic Science
Utilize advanced research competencies to serve as member of an interdisciplinary
team in forensic investigations.
Learn More
DNA Analysis Certificate
Learn to recover DNA profiles from evidence items used in the biology division of
crime laboratories.
Learn More
Crime Scene Practice Certificate
Gain additional knowledge in crime scene practice through Madonna’s Criminal Justice
program.
Learn More
Crime Laboratory Technician Certificate
Learn to analyze physical evidence to determine significance to criminal investigations.
Learn More